Golf Equipment: 32 essential and optional items

Ed Clark

Updated on:

Although starting a golfing career may seem daunting to most people, it does not mean that we need to list all the golf gear they will need. Few sports require more equipment than golf, and the sheer volume of clothing can be enough to make even seasoned golfers feel lost in the chaos. Although many items of equipment are essential for playing or enjoying the game, many others are optional and only worth investing in for certain types of golfers. So, that is what our purpose is – to help you figure out what is worth investing in.

11 absolutely essential golf equipment items

We’ll begin our list of “must-haves”. This is needed for playing your first round. Make a list of golf supplies for your golf shop. It doesn’t hurt to break the bank when you start your first project. It’s easy to spend a lot of money on golf, but there are ways you can play for free if you’re smart about it. Borrowing clubs or working with friends who already play can help you avoid paying anything at all. If you do need to buy equipment, look for quality used items instead of new ones.

1. Golf Clubs

There are all sorts of golf clubs out there, made from different materials and with different shafts, grips, and head designs. It’s important to choose the ones that you’re comfortable with and that you think will give you the best results. Some of the most common types of golf clubs include drivers, lob wedges, swings wedges, and regular wedges.

Types of golf clubs you should consider:

Drivers

Used to hit the ball long distances, drivers have the largest club heads and longest shafts of any golf club. They are designed to give you maximum distance and forgiveness.

Hybrids

Hybrid golf clubs are a cross between a wood and an iron, combining the best features of both. They have club heads that are similar to woods, but with shorter shafts like irons. Hybrids are easier to hit than long irons and can be used for a variety of shots.

Irons

Irons are designed for a variety of different shots, from full shots to pitches

and chips. They have a lower loft angle than pitching wedges and are often used for approach shots into greens or for getting out of trouble.

Putters

Putters are the only club that you use on the green, and they are designed to help you roll the ball into the hole. There are a variety of different putter designs, so it’s important to find one that you’re comfortable with.

Sand Wedge

A sand wedge has a high loft angle and is designed to help you get out of bunkers. It has a wide, rounded sole that prevents it from digging into the sand.

Pitching Wedge

A pitching wedge has a slightly higher loft angle than an iron and is designed for approach shots or to get out of light rough.

Lob Wedge

A lob wedge has the highest loft angle of any golf club, making it ideal for shots that need to go high in the air. It’s also useful for getting out of tight spots around the green.

2. Golf Balls

Golf balls are one of the most important pieces of equipment in a golfer’s bag, as they are responsible for hitting the ball into the hole. There are a variety of different golf balls on the market, each designed for a specific type of shot. Some golfers prefer to use a different ball for each type of shot, while others prefer to use the same ball for all shots.

There are three main types of golf balls:

Driver balls

Driver balls are designed for long-distance shots and are typically made from harder materials than other types of golf balls. They tend to be less expensive than other types of golf balls.

Mid-priced balls

Mid-priced balls are designed for a variety of different shots and can be used for both beginners and experienced golfers. They are made from a mix of hard and soft materials and typically cost between $20 and $30 per dozen.

Premium balls

Premium balls are designed for experienced golfers who want the best performance possible. They are made from the highest-quality materials and typically cost between $30 and $50 per dozen.

Although many golfers prefer to use premium balls, there is no need to spend this much money on golf balls if you’re just starting out. In fact, driver balls or mid-priced balls will be more than adequate for most beginners.

3. Tees

Golf tees are small pieces of wood or plastic that are used to hold the golf ball in place before you hit it from the tee box. They come in a variety of different colors and shapes, and most golfers have a few different types of tees in their bag.

The main purpose of a golf tee is to provide a stable surface for the golf ball to rest on. This is important, as it allows the golfer to hit the ball with more power and accuracy. Tees also help to protect the golf ball from damage, as they absorb some of the impact when the ball is hit.

Although most golfers use tees, there is no requirement to do so. Some golfers prefer to play without tees, while others only use them on certain types of shots. It’s up to each individual golfer to decide what works best for them.

If you’re just starting out, it’s a good idea to use tees until you get comfortable with the game. As you get more experienced, you may choose to play without them more often. Ultimately, it’s up to you and what you feel gives you the best results.

4. Golf gloves

Many golfers own a golf glove, which they are not required to wear. Golf gloves usually provide a better grip on the clubs and can help prevent slippage. Most golfers only need one glove since they wear it on their dominant hand, which has the largest influence in swinging the club. It’s important to wear gloves when playing golf, as without them the ball can fall and ruin our shots. When purchasing gloves, be sure to check that they fit properly – if they’re too big, they’ll lose their purpose or your clubs may slip.

5. Golf Bag

Golfers use a golf bag to organize and carry their clubs, gloves, tees, balls, rangefinder, snacks and other gear. They come in different sizes to accommodate the amount of equipment a golfer needs and can cost between $100-$300. A golf bag can be stored inside golf carts or carried on the course with a straps attached backpack-style.

Stand bag

A smaller golf bag that has legs that extend to keep the bag upright. These bags are designed to be carried and are typically lighter than cart bags.

Cart bag

A larger golf bag that is designed to be stored on a golf cart. These bags usually have more pockets and features than stand bags.

Travel bag

A large golf bag with wheels that is designed for storing all of your golf gear when traveling.

Carry bag

A golf bag with no legs that is designed to be carried over the shoulder. These bags are typically smaller and lighter than stand or cart bags

7. Ball Marker

A golfer marks his ball with ball markers. The ball mark typically has coins. During the marking the ball the golfer has to put it behind the ball to mark the ball. When you put the ball on the green you should be able to place the golf ball just below its target. The golfer must take out the marker and then put the ball down. Markers are usually very cheap since the size of them is very minimal but they are usually used very often.

8. Golf Towel

Golf towels are used to clean golf balls and clubs. They are also used to wipe down golf grips. Golf towels come in all sorts of sizes, colors, and designs. Most golfers prefer to have a small towel that can be easily attached to their golf bag.

9. Divot Repair Tool

A divot is a small chunk of grass that’s dislodged when a golf ball hits the ground. A divot repair tool or ball mark repair tool helps golfers fix these divots so that the course can heal properly and prevent further damage. Most tools have a forked end to help with picking up the turf and a flat end to press the turf

10. Hat and Sunscreen

Golfers generally wear caps during their rounds. Most golfers wear hats because they’re protected from sunlight by their visor. Adding hats helps keep sweat off players faces. Hats can help pro’s display sponsor logos in television shows and in advertising. Hats are commonly available in store or are also offered on sale at pro shops.

It’s easy to forget to put sunscreen on during a round of golf, but it’s important to remember that the sun can cause skin cancer. Most golfers only think about sunscreen when they’re playing in tournaments or on vacation, but the sun is just as dangerous when you’re out playing for a few hours. Make sure you have some sunscreen with you time you play and put it on before you start your round.

11. Water and Snacks

Golfers need to stay hydrated and often bring snacks with them on the course. Packing trail mix, energy bars or other similar foods can help golfers sustain their energy levels throughout a round. Many courses have water coolers located at convenient spots, so players don’t have to lug around water

Nice to Have’ Items You’ll Eventually Need

There are a few items that are nice to have when playing golf, but aren’t necessary. These items can make playing golf more enjoyable for golfers of all levels. Some of these items include a hat and sunscreen to protect from the sun, a divot repair tool to fix divots in the ground, water and snacks to stay hydrated and sustained, and a ball marker to mark the location of your ball on the green. These items are all relatively cheap and can be added at any time, making golf more enjoyable for everyone.

12. Golf Handicap

Not a golf item as the other ones listed but important to advance your game. The golf handicap system is a way for golfers to compare their abilities with other golfers. It’s calculated by taking the average score of a player’s best 10 rounds and then subtracting the player’s course handicap. This number is the player’s golf handicap.

Golfers should get a handicap because it helps them track their progress and measure their improvement. It also allows them to compete against other golfers of similar abilities. A handicap also gives players a better understanding of how they’re playing on a particular course and what holes are giving them trouble.

13. Golf Lessons

Golfers need golf lessons to improve their skills and lower their handicap. Lessons can help golfers learn the proper techniques for swinging their clubs, putting, and chipping. They can also help golfers learn how to read greens and make better choices on which club to use in different situations. Golf lessons are often taught by professional golfers or golf instructors and can be purchased in packages or individually.

14. Range Finder

Golfers use rangefinders to measure the distance from their current location to the green. This information is helpful in selecting the right club to hit the ball and achieving the desired results. Rangefinders are becoming increasingly popular among golfers, as they provide an accurate measurement of distance quickly and easily.

Benefits of using a golf rangefinder include:

– improved accuracy on shots

– helps identify hazards on the course

– can measure distances to any point on the course, not just the green

Most golfers find that using a rangefinder enhances their game and allows them to play with more confidence. Rangefinders are available in a variety of price points, making them an affordable addition to any golfer’s equipment arsenal.

15. Golf trolley

Golfers need a golf trolley to help them carry all of their golf gear around the course. Golf trolleys come in different sizes and styles, but they all do the same job – they make it easy for golfers to transport their clubs, balls, and other gear.

There are three types of golf trolleys: push trolleys, pull trolleys, and electric trolleys. Push trolleys are the most popular type of golf trolley, as they are easy to use and affordable. Pull trolleys are a bit more expensive than push trolleys, but they are easier to use and have a larger carrying capacity. Electric trolleys are the most expensive type of golf trolley, but they are also the most convenient. They have a built-in battery that allows golfers to move their clubs around without having to push or pull them.

All three types of golf trolleys have their pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs. If you’re someone who likes to walk the course, then a push or pull trolley may be best for you. If you prefer to ride around the course in a golf cart, then an electric trolley is the best option. No matter what type of golfer you are, it’s important to have a golf trolley to help you carry your gear around the course.

16. Ball Retrievers

The purpose of a ball retriever is to, well, retrieve golf balls that have been discarded. They become quite handy when thegpoler happens to land their ball in water hazard areas. You can’t normally hit a ball while it’s in water, but with a bit of leeway (and this device), you’re able to save your expensive investment; some golf balls can cost as low as $40!

17. Ball Washers

Most courses these days have ball washers that allow you to sink your balls into soapy water as soon as they’re cleaned. These are often found at all holes of a certain course, but sometimes they are available in only one spot.

18. Club Scrubber

The club scrubber is an inexpensive, effective brush used to clean a golf club after hitting a shot. A scrubber can be hung in a bag andused quickly and easily during a round by many golfers because they are usually priced at $5 to $10 or less.

19. Golf shoes

Golfers should get golf shoes to help their golf game because these shoes are designed specifically for the sport of golf. They provide stability and support, which are important features for golfers who want to improve their game. Golf shoes also have a rubber sole that helps grip the ground and prevents slipping.

Many golfers find that wearing golf shoes enhances their game and allows them to play with more confidence. Golf shoes are available in a variety of price points, making them an affordable addition to any golfer’s equipment arsenal.

20. Club Brush

By investing in your club, and keeping it clean, you will see amazing results. The quick wipe-out between the shots also helps keep the green ready for your approach shots.

21. Golf umbrella

Shoul

Golf umbrellas help keep golfers dry and protected from the sun. They are essential for bad weather days and can also be helpful on hot sunny days. Golf umbrellas come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to choose one that is large enough to provide adequate coverage. Prices for golf umbrellas range from $20 to $100.

22. Alignment Sticks

Alignment sticks have long thin rods used in golf practice for the purposes of ensuring proper alignment with their target. The goal should always be aligned with the target so that the golfer can target the ball with an alignment rod. The second aligner stick should be placed parallel to one another to aid the player in keeping his correct toe lines. They’re generally cheap – they generally cost about $10 for a 2 to 3 Pack.

23. Club Head Covers

Headcovers are protective accessories that fit over golf clubs to safeguard against collisions with other players’ clubs, which could potentially damage them. They are most commonly used for drivers, fairway woods, and putters, but can be purchased for all clubs. Headcoverings usually range in price from $10 – $40, depending on the club type and design customization. This will especially come in handy on a crowded golf course where your clubs are more likely to bump into others.